Thousands of accidents every year involve motorcyclists. Due to their small size and lack of protection these accidents are often serious and even life threatening. Although driver's education courses teach drivers how to interact with our two-wheeled friends, this knowledge is often forgotten or just simply neglected. Here are some friendly reminders to ensure motorcyclists are kept safe.

Motorcycles can hide in blind spots. Because of their small size it is very easy for a motorcyclist to be hidden in areas drivers do not always check. To ensure that they do not hit a motorcycle, drivers need to always double check blind spots for cars, motorbikes, and obstructions.

Motorcycles cannot stop as quickly as other vehicles can. This means that it is very important for drivers to ensure that their stopping distance is significantly longer than that given to a car. This is important because if something obstructs the road or a motorist brakes quickly, a motorcyclist may need more time to brake than the cars around it.

Just as manual cars often shift gears to slow down, motorcyclists often slow down by downshifting. This means that their taillight will not illuminate as it would if the brakes were tapped, so drivers behind the motorbike may not be initially aware that the bike is slowing down. This goes hand in hand with keeping a longer following distance behind cyclists.

Rain effects motorcyclists far more than it effects car drivers. Motorcyclists are out in the elements and do not have a windshield, making it far harder for them to see and be seen. It is important to always use caution when interacting with motorcyclists when the weather turns for the worst, because they often are just trying to make it to their destination as quickly and safely as possible, to ensure their own safety and the safety of those around them.

Just because someone chooses to ride a motorcycle does not mean they are reckless. Motorcyclists are as legally entitled to the road as any vehicle is. Sharing the road with motorcyclists is the law.

Always be on the lookout for motorbikes, for the safety of everyone on the road!

Feel free to check out MSN’s article on interacting with motorcycles on the road, published in 2015, for more information.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are highly experienced in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents including motorcycle crashes. We help victims of motorcycle and car collisions deal with insurance companies and medical bills so that they can focus on recovering instead of handling frustrating legal issues. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.